QUEEN radio transmissions PFM81415

Royal Waves: Queen’s ‘Radio Transmission’ (PFM 81415)

Today’s entry transports us back to a pivotal year in the history of rock royalty. We are looking at the 2024 release Radio Transmission – F.M. Broadcast Recording, 1985 by Queen, released on Pink Flamingo Music Distribution with the catalog number PFM 81415.

The Works Tour Era

1985 was a monumental year for Queen, highlighted by their legendary performance at Live Aid. This recording, sourced from an FM broadcast, captures the band in top form, likely during The Works Tour which traversed the globe during this period. It offers a snapshot of the band balancing their 70s rock roots with the synth-pop sensibilities of the mid-80s.

The Music

The setlist is a powerhouse collection of hits and heavy hitters. It features the funk-rock grooves of Dragon Attack and Another One Bites The Dust alongside the high-energy hard rock of Tear It Up. The album also includes the sophisticated balladry of It’s A Hard Life and huge radio anthems like I Want To Break Free and Under Pressure. It concludes with the obligatory stadium shaker, We Are The Champions, and the playful Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

Format

This UK release is presented on white vinyl, giving it a clean and classic aesthetic that stands out on the turntable. As an unofficial release, it offers collectors a chance to own a specific broadcast performance that sits outside the standard studio discography.

Manufacturing

The runout grooves indicate that the lacquer was cut at Cutting 70, with the initials “DZ” etched into the dead wax, providing insight into the production chain of this modern pressing.